Council-run Portsmouth care home put into special measures

PRIZES, gifts, sponsorship and donations are being sought to make an annual children’s party even more memorable.

Malcolm Drew, the organiser of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, is hoping to attract the attention of local businesses and organisations to help next year’s bash go off with an even bigger bang.

Each year around 200 children are invited to the party, which is held for those who have been affected by long-term illness.

In recent years it has been held at the Marriott Hotel, in Southampton Road, Portsmouth, and offers an array of entertainment.

This includes visits from the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, players and staff from Portsmouth Football Club, firefighters and engines from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and TV presenter Fred Dinenage.

Alongside that, children are also entertained by clowns, face painters, magicians and DJs.

Now it is in its 11th year, Malcolm, of North End, Portsmouth, wants to make the party bigger. He said: ‘We fully realise organisations must be asked to support many good causes, but any contribution will be helping some of the area’s most deserving children.

‘We need toys, gifts, fruit, sweets, raffle prizes or sponsorship. All donations will be acknowledged at the party, and you will receive a personal letter of thanks.

‘This is not intended to be a fundraising event, however, there will be a raffle, and all of the proceeds from the draw will help fund the party and help to provide trips and holidays for terminally-ill children.’

Each year children from hospitals and centres from around the area are invited to the get-together, where they can enjoy a huge party at no cost.

If you’re a company that could help call Malcolm on (023) 9266 6888 or email malc@malcdrew.co.uk.